London, July 15, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi Rail has been awarded the prestigious EcoVadis Platinum Medal, placing the company among the top 1% of businesses assessed globally by EcoVadis over the past 12 months.

This recognition highlights the strength and maturity of Hitachi Rail’s sustainability management system and reflects the company’s continued commitment to responsible business practices, environmental stewardship, ethical conduct, and supply chain transparency.

The EcoVadis Platinum Medal is the highest level of recognition granted by EcoVadis, one of the world’s most trusted providers of business sustainability ratings. The assessment evaluates companies across four key areas: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement.

“Sustainability is not an ambition alongside business – it is increasingly integrated into how business creates value. Achieving EcoVadis Platinum reflects the progress we are making in embedding sustainability into the way we operate, make decisions, and manage risk. It also reflects the commitment of colleagues across our business who are strengthening performance, building resilience, and creating value every day,” said Dr. Maiya Shibasaki, Chief Sustainability Officer. 

As a global leader in sustainable transportation solutions, Hitachi Rail continues to invest in innovation that supports the transition to low-carbon mobility, helping cities and regions reduce emissions while improving connectivity and quality of life.

The Platinum Medal also underscores Hitachi Rail’s commitment to transparency and responsible practices across its value chain. By working closely with suppliers and stakeholders, the company promotes high sustainability standards throughout its operations and business relationships, reinforcing its ambition to contribute to a more sustainable future through innovative rail technologies, digital solutions, and environmentally responsible transportation systems.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT(Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi aims to be a global leader in continuously transforming social infrastructure through digital, contributing to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. 

Hitachi operates worldwide across four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – as well as a Strategic SIB Business Unit focused on new growth areas. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi creates value by combining data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. 

Revenues for FY2025 (ended March 31, 2026) totaled 10,586.7 billion yen, with 606 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 290,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.

About Lumada

About Hitachi Rail

Hitachi Rail is committed to driving the transition to sustainable mobility and has a clear focus on partnering with customers to rethink mobility. Its mission is to help every passenger, customer, and community enjoy the benefits of more connected, smooth, and sustainable transportation. 

With a turnover of more than €7 billion and 24,000 employees in more than 50 countries, Hitachi Rail is a reliable partner for the world's best transport companies. The company's presence is global, but the company is local, with success based on developing local talent and investing in people and communities. 

Its international expertise and experience covers every part of urban ecosystems, main lines and freight railways, from high-quality production and maintenance of rolling stock to digital signaling, payment systems and smart operations. 

Hitachi Rail, famous for Japan's iconic high-speed train, leverages the digital and artificial intelligence expertise of Hitachi Group companies to accelerate innovation and develop new technologies.  

For more information, visit hitachirail.com

TOKYO, July 13, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereinafter, Mitsubishi Motors) and Highlanders, Inc. (hereinafter, Highlanders), a startup originating from the University of Tokyo, today announced that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate in establishing a new industrial foundation where humans and robots work together. Under this MOU, the two companies will explore the joint development of humanoid robots for use at Mitsubishi Motors’ manufacturing facilities as well as mass production of Highlanders products at Mitsubishi Motors’ Kyoto Plant.

The environment surrounding Japan’s manufacturing industry is undergoing significant change, with labor shortages, increasingly sophisticated manufacturing operations, and the need for more flexible manufacturing systems emerging as major challenges. Mitsubishi Motors is committed to creating new value by collaborating with a diverse range of partners, including startups, to address these future challenges. Highlanders, meanwhile, aims to help solve workforce-related issues through humanoid robots and advanced robotics technologies, with the goal of realizing a society where humans and robots collaborate seamlessly. Through this partnership, the two companies seek to create new value in manufacturing and enhance industrial competitiveness.

As a first step in its joint development project with Highlanders, Mitsubishi Motors plans to utilize humanoid robots at its own manufacturing facilities. Through practical use, the company will accumulate operational data and know-how while deepening its expertise in the field of humanoid robotics and evaluating opportunities for future development and production.

In parallel, Mitsubishi Motors will leverage its proven expertise in mass-production engineering, quality assurance, durability and safety design, integrated mechatronics control technologies, and factory operations to explore the production of Highlanders’ humanoid robots. The companies will examine the feasibility of commencing production in early 2027 by utilizing currently unused buildings at Mitsubishi Motors’ Kyoto Plant.

This marks the first collaboration of its kind between an automotive manufacturer and a humanoid robotics developer involving mass production. By gaining an operational and manufacturing partner, Highlanders expects to accelerate the growth of both companies’ humanoid robotics businesses.

Mitsubishi Motors has already invested in Highlanders and plans to make additional investments in the future.

Moving forward, the two companies will continue their collaborative efforts toward realizing a society in which humans and robots work together.

Comment from Takao Kato, chairman of the board, representative executive officer and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

"Our collaboration with Highlanders represents a challenge aimed at building a new industrial foundation in which humans and robots work together. At the same time, it provides Mitsubishi Motors with a valuable opportunity to deepen our technological and business expertise in the field of humanoid robotics. By utilizing humanoid robots in our own manufacturing facilities and supporting the production of Highlanders products, we aim to leverage the outcomes of this collaboration to drive our growth and enhance corporate value.”

Comment from Hiroya Masuoka, representative director and CEO of Highlanders, Inc.

"At Highlanders, our mission is to address a wide range of industrial challenges through robotics and physical AI technologies. We believe that achieving mass production of domestically developed humanoid robots through this partnership with Mitsubishi Motors, which brings decades of manufacturing expertise, represents a significant step toward achieving this goal. Furthermore, deploying our robotics technologies within Mitsubishi Motors’ manufacturing operations will provide a valuable opportunity to drive technological advancement in our products. By maximizing the value of this collaboration, we look forward to expanding our mutually beneficial relationship with Mitsubishi Motors.”

Contract Signing Ceremony

TOKYO, July 2, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has signed a contract with Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC), the operator of the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) network, for maintenance tools and equipment for the Yanchao Main Workshop in southern Taiwan. The Yanchao Main Workshop is a facility for maintenance and inspection of trains owned by THSRC. For this project, MHI will deliver, install, and conduct testing and commissioning of maintenance tools and equipment for the Yanchao Main Workshop.

THSRC is currently introducing the new N700ST series trains, with commercial operation scheduled to begin in the second half of 2027. This project aims to strengthen the maintenance system in line with the introduction of the new N700ST series trains, contributing to further improvements in the THSR network's transportation services.

Since its inauguration in 2007, the THSR network has been widely utilized as core transportation infrastructure in Taiwan. Annual ridership has increased significantly from about 15 million at the time of opening to approximately 82 million in 2025. Currently, the network serves an average of approximately 230,000 passengers per day, and its cumulative ridership has surpassed 1 billion, playing a vital role in supporting economic activity and mobility in Taiwan.

The THSR Core System Supply Contract was awarded in 2000 to a consortium of seven Japanese companies, including MHI, and commercial operations commenced in January 2007. Since the inauguration, MHI has contributed to the development of the THSR network through involvement in such projects as the Nangang Extension Project and the Trackwork and Core System for the Zuoying Depot. This project reflects recognition of MHI's longstanding track record and technical expertise.

Going forward, MHI will continue to leverage its technology and expertise in transportation systems and project management capabilities to contribute to the further development of the THSR network, and the realization of safe and reliable service.

About MHI Group

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world's leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit: www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.

NEW YORK, July 2, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi Rail has successfully completed the acquisition of Clever Devices, a leading U.S.-based provider of Intelligent Transportation Systems for transit agencies around the world.

Clever Devices is recognized for its pioneering technology solutions that enhance fleet management, passenger experience and operational efficiency for mass transit agencies. The company has offices across the United States, Europe and South America.

The acquisition of a company with deep digital expertise and projected 2026 revenues of over $220 million enables Hitachi Rail to reflect the increasing demand for more integrated transportation systems. With completion of the transaction, Hitachi Rail extends its footprint beyond rail into multimodal mobility and further strengthens its presence in North America.

With over 600 employees and a customer base that includes 8 of the 10 largest North American transit agencies, Clever Devices has a strong track record of innovation and delivery. Its Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions are a critical enabler of increased public transport usage, improving the accuracy of information and boosting service punctuality. These solutions are deployed across public mobility systems, including buses as well as railways. In addition to its strong North American presence, Clever Devices has achieved substantial growth in markets such as Brazil and Chile, as well as in Europe, including Italy.

Clever Devices portfolio of onboard and centralised data solutions augments Hitachi's HMAX Mobility suite of physical AI solutions, bringing enhanced functionality and benefits for customers across public transport systems globally.

HMAX for Rail sits as part of HMAX Mobility ​ and is Hitachi Rail's digital asset management platform that optimizes railway performance by connecting data from fleets of trains, signalling assets and infrastructure to create an operational twin of rail systems. It combines advanced sensor technology, rail expertise, AI and edge computing to maximize performance, extend asset life and optimize costs.

Giuseppe Marino, Group CEO, Hitachi Rail, said:​

"This is a key step in advancing our strategy to drive the digital transformation of public transport. We are combining Clever Devices' strong capabilities in intelligent transportation systems with our global reach and HMAX Mobility suite of solutions. With this acquisition, we are broadening our scope beyond rail, strengthening our footprint in North America, and laying the platform to help cities develop more integrated, sustainable and efficient transportation networks."

As part of the integration, where he led the launch of Hitachi's Industrial AI portfolio. As CEO, Frank will focus on accelerating growth, strengthening market positioning and driving long-term value creation for the Clever Devices business.

Frank Antonysamy, CEO, Clever Devices, a Hitachi Group Company, said:​

"Joining Clever Devices at this important moment is a great opportunity. As part of Hitachi Rail, we are well positioned to leverage Hitachi's investments in HMAX and more than 115 years of OT expertise, to accelerate innovation, expand our global reach and deliver enhanced value to transit agencies and passengers through our advanced digital mobility solutions"

Hitachi Rail's growing footprint in North America is underlined by recent investments including the $110m opening of its digital factory in Hagerstown, Maryland, and a CA$30m investment in a new Canadian headquarters.

Hitachi Rail collaborated with SSIB, Hitachi's Strategic Social Innovation Business Unit, on the acquisition, supporting the One Hitachi initiative and creating further opportunities across the mobility sector. The business will also benefit from the wider digital expertise of Hitachi Group companies, including Hitachi Digital, GlobalLogic and Hitachi Digital Services.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi aims to be a global leader in continuously transforming social infrastructure through digital , contributing to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates worldwide across four sectors - Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries - as well as a Strategic SIB Business Unit focused on new growth areas . With Lumada at its core, Hitachi creates value by combining data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY 202 5 (ended March 31, 202 6 ) totaled 10,586 .7 billion yen, with 6 06 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 2 9 0,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com .

About Hitachi Rail

Hitachi Rail is committed to driving the transition to sustainable mobility and has a clear focus on partnering with customers to rethink mobility. Its mission is to help every passenger, customer, and community enjoy the benefits of more connected, smooth, and sustainable transportation. With a turnover of more than €7 billion and 24,000 employees in more than 50 countries, Hitachi Rail is a reliable partner for the world's best transport companies. The company's presence is global, but the company is local, with success based on developing local talent and investing in people and communities. Its international expertise and experience covers every part of urban ecosystems, main lines and freight railways, from high - quality production and maintenance of rolling stock to digital signaling, payment systems and smart operations. Hitachi Rail, famous for Japan's iconic high -speed train, leverages the digital and artificial intelligence expertise of Hitachi Group companies to accelerate innovation and develop new technologies. For more information, visit hitachirail.com 

TOKYO // TAIPEI, July 1, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, and JCB International (Taiwan) Co., Ltd., announced the launch of JCB contactless payment acceptance on the Taipei Metro.

The Taipei Metro, which commenced operations in 1996, is a major urban mass transit system connecting Taipei City and New Taipei City. The network consists of multiple lines with a total length of over 100 kilometers and numerous stations serving key areas. It is widely used for daily commuting as well as by tourists. Along its routes are many of Taiwan’s iconic attractions, including Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, Ximending, and the Shilin Night Market, making it an essential transportation option for both residents and visitors.

With the introduction of JCB contactless payment on the Taipei Metro, JCB Cardmembers can simply tap their contactless JCB Cards or compatible devices at ticket gates to ride. This eliminates the need to purchase tickets or reload transit cards, providing a smoother and more seamless travel experience.

In Taiwan, JCB contactless payments are already available not only on the Taipei Metro (including the Circular Line of New Taipei Metro) but also on the Kaohsiung Metro, Taoyuan Metro, and Taichung Metro.

JCB contactless payments are increasingly being adopted across public transportation systems worldwide, contributing to improved convenience for both daily travel and tourism. JCB will continue to promote cashless solutions in the transportation sector and strive to expand usage scenarios while enhancing customer convenience.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 72 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 181 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Contact
Anna Takeda
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp　

TOKYO, Japan, June 30, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Honda will commemorate the 40th anniversary of its first FIA*1 Formula One World Championship™ Constructors’ title*2 in 1986 with a series of special programs and events around the world.

The first championship title in Honda’s F1™ history was a major milestone that symbolized its spirit of challenge. To commemorate the 40th anniversary of this achievement, Honda will look back on the history of its challenges and victories in F1™ while conducting a global showrun program featuring the Williams Honda FW11*3 (FW11) to celebrate with motorsports fans around the world.

At the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026, to be held in West Sussex, United Kingdom (July 9–12 local time), the FW11 will be driven by Damon Hill and Ryo Michigami. Damon Hill is one of the legendary drivers who won the F1™ Drivers’ Championship in 1996, while Ryo Michigami won the 2000 All Japan GT Championship (JGTC) title with the NSX and has competed in top categories in Japan and overseas for many years. In addition, the Prelude HRC Concept, first unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon in January, is also scheduled to take part in showruns. It will be driven by Jessica Hawkins, Head of F1 Academy*4 and Driver Ambassador at Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team.

*1 FIA : Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile
*2 Annual title awarded to the team that scores the most points over the course of a season.
*3 The F1™ car that Honda entered in 1986 by supplying engines to what is now Atlassian Williams F1™ Team.
*4 An all-female racing series organized by F1™, established to support the development of young female drivers.

Honda key activities to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Honda’s first F1™ title

The FW11, renowned for its dominant performance and powered by a 1.5-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, will appear at major motorsports events around the world.

Event schedule (planned)

April 19: Shin Motor Fan Festa (Shizuoka, Japan) As the first event in the program, the FW11 completed demonstration runs at Fuji Speedway. Footage of the demonstration is available on Honda’s official YouTube channel. https://youtu.be/-UTXXYm-znA

July 9-12: Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 (West Sussex, United Kingdom)

August: Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (California, United States)

Honda’s first F1™ title

In 1986, the FW11 demonstrated outstanding competitiveness throughout the season, winning nine of the 16 Grands Prix and delivering Honda’s first Constructors’ Championship title. The achievement marked the beginning of a golden era for Honda in F1™, during which the company would go on to secure multiple championship victories.

Further information regarding Honda’s activities at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 and the history of Honda in F1™ will be made available on the following websites:

- Honda First F1™ Title 40th Anniversary (Williams)
https://global.honda/en/F1/williams/

- Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026
https://global.honda/en/goodwood/2026/

TOKYO, Japan, June 30, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today issued the Honda ESG Report 2026, posting it on the company website.

As one of the tools to enhance communication with a diverse range of stakeholders, Honda has been issuing its annual "Honda ESG Report," which comprehensively summarizes the company’s approach and initiatives to enhance its sustainability from the Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) perspectives.

Honda has realigned the powertrain portfolios and product launch plans for its motorcycle, automobile, and power products businesses, considering changes in the current business environment and demand trends. Additionally, Honda has reset the management indicators and targets toward achieving the company goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. Moreover, Honda has reassessed its corporate governance structure to ensure the steady execution of each business strategy and enable bold and transparent decision-making.

This year’s Honda ESG Report outlines the rationale behind these new environmental indicators and targets, the roadmap for achieving the new targets, and initiatives to enhance Honda corporate governance.

English language version: https://global.honda/en/sustainability/report.html

Cover of the Honda ESG Report 2026

Honda is striving to evolve as a company to continue creating new value based on the company’s unchanging desire since its founding to “help people and society” and “help people expand their own life’s potential.” To this end, Honda is committed to communicating the approach and initiatives Honda is taking to ensure its sustainability by providing easy-to-understand information through the Honda ESG Report. Moreover, by increasing opportunities to engage in dialogue with its stakeholders, Honda will continue to advance its sustainability initiatives and strive to achieve a steady increase in corporate value, which will enable Honda to continue to be a company society wants to exist into the future.

Main contents of the Honda ESG Report 2026:

- Overview of Honda sustainability initiatives (basic approach, sustainability management structure, etc.)
- Environmental initiatives (climate change, pollution, water, etc.)
- Social initiatives (human rights, human resources, safety, etc.)
- Governance initiatives (corporate governance, compliance, risk management, etc.)

Multi Meter (illustrative image)

TOKYO, June 30, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced that its all-new Pajero cross-country SUV, scheduled for global debut this autumn, is engineered to deliver authentic off-road performance that enables safe, secure and comfortable driving across various weather and road conditions. Symbolizing this capability, the model features the Multi Meter, a digital triple meter display that pays homage to an iconic feature popularized in previous generations.

Designed to enhance the enjoyment of off-road driving, the Multi Meter on the all-new Pajero provides a wide range of information, including altitude, compass heading, ambient temperature, vehicle pitch and roll angles, and left-right torque distribution. These features allow drivers to monitor constantly changing driving conditions and vehicle dynamics in real time.

Whether navigating steep inclines, winding mountain roads, narrow and rugged forest trails, uneven rocky terrain or muddy conditions after heavy rain, the system displays real-time information that helps drivers maintain confidence and control across diverse natural environments around the world.

On the dedicated website for the all-new Pajero, Mitsubishi Motors has released a promotional video titled "The Pajero* is ready to write its next chapter." The video highlights the evolution of the Multi Meter - inherited and refined from earlier models - and showcases the vehicle’s ability to inspire a spirit of challenge, ignite a sense of adventure, and invite drivers to explore.

Special website for the all-new Pajero
https://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/global/en/lineup/pajero/teaser/(Open in a new window)

* Known as the Montero in some markets

Nagasaki City East Plant

TOKYO, June 30, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co., Ltd. (MHIEC), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has completed the rebuilding of the East Waste-to-Energy Plant in Toishimachi, Nagasaki City as part of a contract received from the Nagasaki Municipal Government in 2022. The plant has been in full operation since June 16.

This rebuilding work was carried out due to the superannuation of the previous facility. Under the DBO(1) contract, operation and maintenance services at the plant will be performed over a period of 20 years by Nagasaki Higashi Eco-Creation Co., Ltd., a Special Purpose Company (SPC) created with investment(2) from MHIEC and MHI Group's Jukan Operation Co., Ltd. (President: Tatsusaburo Fujiwara; Headquarters: Kozen-machi, Nagasaki City; hereinafter JKO).

The plant comprises two stoker-type incinerators(3) with a processing capacity of 105 tons per day (tpd) each, providing a total waste processing capacity of 210 tpd, and related equipment, delivering a power generating capacity of 4,940 kW through steam turbine power generating equipment. Heat energy generated during waste processing will be used for high-efficiency power generation and to supply high-temperature water to the nearby Nagasaki Higashi Park Community Facility. By maximizing use of energy, the plant will contribute to the advancement of Nagasaki's quest to be a "zero carbon city."

MHIEC took over MHI's waste treatment plant business in 2008, acquiring the technological development capabilities in environmental systems and broad-ranging expertise in the construction and operation of waste management facilities both in Japan and overseas that MHI honed over many years. A strength of this company is its ability to propose total solutions from construction to operation based on its extensive track record. Going forward, MHIEC will continue to proactively make proposals to extend the life of existing waste treatment facilities, take measures against global warming, and reduce lifecycle costs (LCC) such as maintenance and management costs to contribute to the decarbonization of energy through the collection of energy from waste.

(1) Under a DBO (design, build, operate) contract, a local agency or other public body procures necessary funding and entrusts a facility's design, construction and operation responsibilities to a private company while retaining its ownership.
(2) MHIEC holds an 85% stake in the company, and JKO the remaining 15%
(3) A stoker-type incinerator injects air from beneath heat-resistant fire grates, mixing the waste and other material by pushing it up, and allowing for efficient incineration. It is the most common system used for municipal solid waste.

About MHI Group

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. 

KARIYA, JAPAN, June 30, 2026 - (JCN Newswire) - DENSO CORPORATION (Headquarters: Kariya City, Aichi Prefecture; President: Shinnosuke Hayashi, hereinafter referred to as “DENSO”) and TÜV Rheinland Japan, Ltd. (Headquarters: Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture; President: Kunihiro Okamoto, hereinafter referred to as “TÜV Rheinland Japan”) have conducted a joint validation of battery passport for an energy storage product of AESC Group Ltd. (Head Office: Yokohama, Kanagawa; CEO: David Wan; hereinafter “AESC”), using actual data from AESC’s ESS*1 business. In this validation, DENSO, in collaboration with the relevant parties, was responsible for building and providing the technological foundation for battery passport, and TÜV Rheinland Japan, as the independent third-party certification body, have verified that the product complies with the EU Battery Regulation*2 and is both practical and feasible for real-world use. This achievement lays a solid foundation for AESC’s energy storage products to enter the EU market.

- Challenges and Background

In recent years, societal expectations have increasingly called for achieving carbon neutrality and transitioning to a circular economy that enables resources to circulate within the economic system. As a result, efforts to develop sustainable products have accelerated. In Europe in particular, Digital Product Passport (DPP)*3 is being introduced to digitally manage and present product traceability information. Under the EU Battery Regulation, a battery passport will become mandatory from February 2027 for batteries used in automotive, industrial, and other applications.

At the same time, key challenges in addressing the Regulation include preparing data derived from actual data, operating the required systems, and ensuring overall practicality and feasibility, including third-party verification.

- Overview of the Validation

Against this backdrop, DENSO and TÜV Rheinland Japan entered a memorandum of understanding in September 2025 to advance the Digital Product Passport*4. Under this partnership, the two companies conducted a validation of a battery passport using actual data from AESC’s ESS batteries for the European market, with AESC serving as the data provider, to verify the practicality and regulatory compliance of battery passport under the EU Battery Regulation.

DENSO provided a service to support the generation and management of battery passport in accordance with the EU Battery Regulation. Based on standards established by the Battery Pass Consortium*5, the service generates a battery passport for each product and enables access to battery information via a QR code affixed to the product. The service also includes an access-rights management function that controls information available for viewing depending on the user’s role, ensuring data security while respecting the data sovereignty of each stakeholder and supporting regulatory compliance.

As manufacturer of energy storage products, AESC prepared the necessary data for compliance with the upcoming battery passport mandate and provided data from its existing ESS business, while taking into account future exports to Europe and customer requirements.In preparation for full compliance with the upcoming battery passport mandate, AESC has implemented comprehensive sustainability and compliance measures across its value chain, extending beyond the specific data scope of this validation. The company deploys systematic supply chain oversight to enforce compliant practices and rigorous quality control. To support long-term sustainability, AESC has estSSablished, through the use of digital battery passport solutions, a closed-loop circular economy framework for battery recycling and reuse.

As a third-party certification body, TÜV Rheinland Japan verified the data handled by the battery passport service based on the EU Battery Regulation and standards such as DIN DKE SPEC 99100*6.

- Results of the Validation

Through validation using actual data, the companies identified the data preparation and operational challenges associated with the EU Battery Regulation’s requirements in a real-world business environment. The validation also confirmed that DENSO’s battery passport service extends beyond meeting formal regulatory requirements and represents a highly practical solution that can be integrated into real-world business processes. In addition, the verification conducted by TÜV Rheinland Japan, as a third-party certification body, verified that the battery passport is effective in both regulatory compliance and data reliability.

Based on this validation using ESS battery data, DENSO and TÜV Rheinland Japan will expand their efforts to include AESC’s automotive traction batteries and jointly advance the practical implementation of battery passport across a broader range of applications. Through these initiatives, they will advance regulatory compliance not only in Europe but also in global markets, support value creation for customers such as automakers through resource circulation and contribute to the realization of a sustainable society.

*1 ESS: Energy Storage System—a system designed to temporarily store electricity and supply it when needed, with the aim of balancing electricity supply and demand.

*2 EU Battery Regulation: A regulation that entered into force in Europe in August 2023 to promote the production and use of sustainable battery products.

*3 DPP: A collective term for digital credentials in which a wide range of information—such as the manufacturer, materials used, recyclability, and disassembly instructions—is recorded to ensure traceability across a product’s lifecycle and substantiate its sustainability.

*4 DENSO and TÜV Rheinland Japan Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Realize Sustainable Product Development and to Promote Digital Product Passport | Newsroom | News | DENSO Global Website

*5 Battery Pass Consortium: A European public–private partnership established to develop the framework and implementation tools for the battery passport mandated under the EU Battery Regulation.

*6 DIN DKE SPEC 99100: A specification issued by the German Institute for Standardization (DIN) and the German Commission for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (DKE). It defines requirements for the data attributes to be included in a digital battery passport; mandatory items include battery manufacturer information, material composition, and the COâ‚‚ footprint.